Diagnosis and long-term management of blastomycosis in two ferrets (Mustela putorius furo)

Ferret Dermatology

“…73 Blastomycosis can present as systemic neurologic and pulmonary disease, or as ulcerative, nonhealing lesions on the skin and footpads. 76,77 Agar gel immunodiffusion assay, cytology, or histopathology can be used for diagnostic purposes. 76,77 Cultures should only take place in a professional laboratory to eliminate the zoonotic risk of infective blastomycosis spores.…”

“…76,77 Agar gel immunodiffusion assay, cytology, or histopathology can be used for diagnostic purposes. 76,77 Cultures should only take place in a professional laboratory to eliminate the zoonotic risk of infective blastomycosis spores. 63 Prognosis depends on the extent of infection at the time of diagnosis.…”

“…77 Amphotericin B (0.7-25 mg/kg intravenously, administered in smaller doses) can be used in cases nonresponsive to itraconazole, 63,73 whereas fluconazole or voriconazole can be effective in case of neurologic spread. 76 Although glucocorticosteroids can be used for anti-inflammatory purposes, mixed results and potential for further immunosuppression render their use controversial. 76…”

“…76 Although glucocorticosteroids can be used for anti-inflammatory purposes, mixed results and potential for further immunosuppression render their use controversial. 76…”